KLN Family Brands is a family-owned pet food company based in Perham, Minnesota. It is the parent of Tuffy’s Pet Foods and the NutriSource brand, and it built a large pet treat plant in Delano, Minnesota. If you are wondering whether Tuffy’s treats are worth buying, the answer depends on the specific product label, not the company story, so this guide covers both.
Who Is KLN Family Brands?
KLN Family Brands makes dry food, wet food and treats for dogs and cats. Its Tuffy’s Pet Foods arm announced a new treat manufacturing plant in Delano, Minnesota, west of the Twin Cities, described in trade coverage as roughly 170,000 square feet. Trade reports link the company to the NutriSource, PureVita and Natural Planet brands, which are sold mainly through independent pet specialty stores. Tuffy’s Treat Company also acquired the Finley’s Barkery dog treat brand.
Company size and a modern factory do not guarantee a better treat. They do mean the products are made in a regulated commercial facility with quality controls, which is worth something when you compare treats from unknown sellers.
How to Read a Dog Treat Label
Whatever brand you buy, check these things on the package:
- First ingredients: named meats or whole foods should come before starches and sweeteners.
- Calories per treat: a treat should usually be no more than about 10 percent of your dog’s daily calories. Treats that list calories make this easy.
- Added sugar and sweeteners: dogs do not need them, and xylitol is dangerous for dogs.
- Preservatives: natural options such as mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) and rosemary extract are common, so read the label to see what a specific product uses.
- Country of origin and a company phone number: useful if you ever need to ask a question.
Joint Supplement Claims on Treats
Some treats advertise glucosamine and chondroitin for joints. Dogs with stiffness or arthritis should be seen by a vet, who can decide on proper treatment and the right product. Do not rely on the small amount in a treat to manage a joint problem, and check with your vet before adding supplements.
Picking the Right Treat for Your Dog
- Training: choose small, soft, low-calorie pieces you can break into smaller bits.
- Chewing: see our guide to how to select the best chew treats for dogs and top dog chews.
- Puppies: easy puppy teething treats are a homemade option.
- Health conditions: dogs with kidney disease, pancreatitis or allergies need vet-approved treats. Start with our notes on treats for dogs with kidney disease.
You can also compare store-bought biscuits with the ingredients in dog biscuits.
Bottom Line
KLN Family Brands and Tuffy’s are established Minnesota pet food makers, but judge any treat by its label, calories and how your dog does on it. If your dog has a medical condition or you are unsure about an ingredient, ask your vet first. This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
